So High School - Tayvis One Shots

11: Christmas Morning

The soft glow of the morning sun slowly began to brighten the room as snow gently fell outside, casting a peaceful silence over the world. The warmth of the blankets and the steady rise and fall of Travis's chest beneath Taylor's cheek made her feel completely at peace. The smell of pine and faintly burnt wood from the fireplace still lingered in the air, mixing with the scent of Travis—comforting and familiar.

Taylor blinked awake, a soft smile spreading across her face as she watched him sleep. His strong arms were wrapped around her waist, holding her close even in his sleep. She let herself take in this moment, knowing how lucky she was to wake up next to him on Christmas morning. It wasn't the flashing lights of the stage or the glitter of red carpets; it was this. The quiet moments, waking up wrapped in the arms of someone who made her feel safe, made her feel loved.

"Merry Christmas," she whispered softly, pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek.

Travis stirred, his eyes blinking open slowly. His sleepy grin appeared the moment he saw her. "Merry Christmas, baby," he murmured, his voice rough with sleep. He shifted beneath her, pulling her closer as he pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Can't believe I get to wake up to you today."

Taylor's heart fluttered. "And every Christmas after," she teased, her fingers tracing the outline of his jaw.

"Mmm, you're right." Travis let out a lazy chuckle, his arms tightening around her. "I could get used to this."

They stayed like that for a while, wrapped up in each other, savoring the quiet intimacy of the moment before the rest of the world woke up. The house was still, the sound of snow softly pattering against the windows, and Taylor felt an overwhelming sense of peace. She knew their families were downstairs, waiting for the hustle and bustle of Christmas morning to begin, but for now, it was just them—just Travis and Taylor, wrapped in each other's warmth.

"I can't wait to give you your present," Taylor whispered after a moment, her head still resting against his chest.

Travis smiled, rubbing her back gently. "You mean this isn't it?" he teased. "I thought waking up with you in my arms was the best gift I could ask for."

Taylor laughed softly, her fingers drawing small circles on his chest. "You're sweet, but trust me, I've got something special planned."

Travis raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You and your surprises, Swift. Now I'm really curious."

She kissed him again, slow and soft. "You'll just have to wait a little longer," she said with a playful glint in her eyes.

By the time they finally made their way downstairs, the house was buzzing with activity. Wyatt, Ellie, and Bennett—Travis's nieces—were already awake, giggling and running around the tree in their matching Christmas pajamas. The smell of freshly brewed coffee and cinnamon wafted through the house, and Taylor's heart swelled at the sight of both families mingling in the cozy living room.

"Merry Christmas!" Donna called out, her face lighting up as she spotted Taylor and Travis descending the stairs hand-in-hand.

"Merry Christmas!" Taylor beamed, waving to Travis's mom and her own family, who were gathered near the fireplace. Scott and Andrea smiled warmly at her, cups of coffee in hand, while Austin sat cross-legged near the tree, clearly in on the kids' excitement about the presents stacked underneath.

"Finally!" Wyatt exclaimed, running over to grab Travis's hand. "We've been waiting for you, Uncle Travis! It's time to open presents!"

"Yeah, what took you guys so long?" Ellie added, bouncing on her toes.

Travis gave Taylor a knowing look before turning back to his nieces. "Well, you know, Aunt Taylor had to make sure my Christmas hair was perfect," he joked, rubbing his tousled hair dramatically.